The pen.

I have the choice to either start the insulin pen tomorrow (December 7th) or to wait a little longer and continue the normal syringes. I'm scared and I know that after I get used to the pen i will like it a lot better.But i'm just the kind of person who likes to keep things at their own pace, and the pen is just like a robot who does it for you and i cant TELL the pen i'm nervous,its my first time, and all that stuff. I want to do it but only because if i don't i know that everyone will be disappointed in me. And Mrs.Davis (my helper at school) was really excited to hear i might be getting the pen tomorrow. I just don't know what to do. Any advise? -Hannah

45 replies

It all depends on the person. Everyone is different. It also depends on the needles that you get for the pen. In the hospital they used the pen on me and I loved it (didn't know anything different either), when I left they gave me what was left in it and two needles so I had to buy more. The new ones I bought I didn't like so after that when the pen was done I went to the vials and it also helped that the vials were the only thing completely covered by my insurance. So the only thing you can do is try it, I assume if you don't like it you can go back to the other when you run out.

Go with the pens. I had been using syringes since Novemder of 2009. I started the pens this past November and regret not having done it sooner. The pens are are easier to carry that syringes and vials. If you use a very short needle, such as BDs 4mm Nano needles you will not have to pinch your skin before injecting. You would be able to inject in your arms and buttocks without assistance. Embrace change and go with the pens. Good luck and Happy Holidays.Lew

I have been using the pen since I was diagnosed in 2010. and can't imagine using a syringe. I have to learn to use one, though, as I will be taking care of a cat with diabetes over the holidays and have to give her the shots. Makes me more nervous than the pen ever did - you will find it very easy to manage. Good luck!

Quit making up science fiction about insulin pens and take your medicine (or listening to the bozo that told you that rubish). A robot? The pen is not like a robot that does anything for you. It does nothing for you except to eliminate the vial. It has a needle, just like the one at the business end of your syringe. You wipe it (and the injection site), shake it, screw on the needle, do a 2-unit air shot, dial the dose, stick the needle in, and push the plunger back to zero. Done.

My experience of syringes maybe biased as I only ha them when in hospital but pens are SO SO MUCH BETTER! Every morning I just sling it in my bag and set off for Uni. It's so hassle free. I was always cautious how I handled my syringes and where to keep them. They just felt so…dangerous. Also very fiddly and the pens are ten times quicker. You just twist it to how much you want to deliver and then press the end down. They are also a lot more private if you want to inject in a busy place as you can inject in no time and not need to draw up the insulin.

If I was you I would go for the pen as you will find out straight away you made the right choice. ! Take care and good luck!

Dear Hannah, I think you will find the pen actually easier to use and more precise in dialing up your insulin dose. Before starting on my insulin pump in August, I was using a NovoLog Flexpen and a Lantus Solostar pen. They were both so much more convenient and portable than syringes and insulin vials. My advice is to go for it! I truly believe you won't regret it one whit!Hugs,Lou

Hi Hannah. I use the pen also. I have a question for you. Has anyone gone over how to use it yet? I mean have you actually held it and pushed on it into a spongey ball, a piece of fruit, or something like that? If not, ask for permission to do that. You will see that the same way it clicks when you turn it to the suggested units, is the same way it clicks when you press on it to administer the insulin. Therefore, you are able to push on it as fast and as slow as you need to. It really is a simple device to use. I'm sure you will become as comfortable with it as you are the syringes. By the way, I must applaud you for being able to use the syringes. That's something I don't think I could ever do. Good luck tomorrow.

A pen is essentially the same as a syringe and vial except that the vial is in the syringe and you twist the end rather than pull a plunger out to get the number of units you want. Other than that it is almost identical. I would start the pen, it's just a lot easier and more convenient to use.

It still has a plunger, maybe not quite as long as a syringe but for doses that are not tiny you can push it as slow or as fast as you need. If that's a big concern, ask for a pediatric version of the pen. They dial in half unit doses so it's much easier to control the speed as the plunger is out twice as much as a regular pen. Not all types of insulin is available in a pediatric pen though so it may not be an option.

True, and eventhough others say it's better, it still a scary thought cause you haven't experienced it yet. Give yourself time…don't do it until you are ready. It's your body and your health and your choice. Hope tomorrow is a good day for you.